In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into a range of intriguing gaming industry updates. We discuss Volley's successful $55m Series C fundraising round and its rise as a leader in AI-powered games for smart TVs and Alexa devices. Next, we explore the formation of Pithead Studio by former Piranha Bytes developers Björn and Jennifer Pankratz, and the new joint venture Palworld Entertainment, created by Sony Music, Aniplex, and Pocketpair. We also cover the FTC's investigation into PC manufacturers ASRock, Gigabyte, and Zotac for illegal warranty practices. Lastly, we analyze Microsoft's controversial decision to exclude day one releases from the standard Xbox Game Pass tier while simultaneously increasing subscription prices.

0:00 Intro

0:47 Updates

16:21 Voice-controlled game developer closes Fundraising https://tinyurl.com/bdhhbtyn

24:07 Piranha Bytes devs form Pithead Studio https://tinyurl.com/4jrwymsy

36:16 Sony, Aniplex, and Pocketpair form Palworld Entertainment https://tinyurl.com/4c2ub6p9

44:27 The FTC is investigating PC manufacturers https://tinyurl.com/y5bk2a9m

53:42 Xbox Game Pass Microsoft Hikes Prices Again https://tinyurl.com/3hrmkt5u

1:11:25 Outro

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In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into some of the most intriguing recent developments in the gaming world. We start with the news of an officially licensed Steam controller by Hori, set to launch in Japan, bringing new features but missing some iconic elements from its predecessor. Next, we discuss Evo 2024's record-breaking status as the largest esports competition ever, with over 10,000 participants from 63 countries. We also cover the launch of 2weeks, an experimental web game studio by industry veterans from Double Fine and Undead Labs, focusing on rapid prototyping and transparency. Additionally, we address the controversy surrounding a Polish developer's mandatory naked sauna job requirement and the backlash it received. Finally, we unpack Dr Disrespect’s recent revelation about his Twitch ban, shedding light on the reasons behind his removal from the platform. Tune in for an episode packed with groundbreaking news and insightful commentary.

0:00 Intro

0:42 Update

10:41 Steam is getting an official controller https://tinyurl.com/yu5bkrah

23:35 Evo 2024 Is Officially The Largest Esports Competition https://tinyurl.com/93r7c84u

32:25 Double Fine and Undead Labs vets launch experimental web game studio https://tinyurl.com/44pf755f

38:31 Polish developer apologises for naked sauna job requirement https://tinyurl.com/5xv6kvw3

51:26 Dr Disrespect finally shares why he was banned https://tinyurl.com/2budv35n

01:07:48 Outro

Leave a LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening!

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PODCAST ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast

AMAZON Music ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast

APPLE ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410

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In this episode, we delve into the latest industry news and developments. We start by discussing how EA executives earned a staggering $60 million in 2024, even as the company underwent significant layoffs and office closures. Next, we cover Larry Hryb, known as "Major Nelson," who has joined Unity as the Director of Community after leaving Microsoft. We also explore Phil Spencer's intriguing hints about a potential Xbox handheld device, which could mark a new direction for Microsoft's gaming hardware. Lastly, we review the highlights from the June 2024 Nintendo Direct, including exciting new game announcements and updates on long-awaited titles like Metroid Prime 4. Tune in for an insightful discussion on these major gaming industry events!

0:00 Intro

0:38 Updates

5:26 EA execs earned $60 million in 2024 despite layoffs and office closures https://tinyurl.com/3zwttpbp

14:37 Major Nelson is joining Unity https://tinyurl.com/2resmpc7

23:31 Xbox boss: ‘I think we should have a handheld, too’ https://tinyurl.com/mr2bd98f

30:56 Everything announced at Nintendo Direct June 2024 https://tinyurl.com/2xdzzd68

1:11:00 Outro

Leave a LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening!

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PODCAST ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast

AMAZON Music ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast

APPLE ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410

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OVERCAST ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast

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RADIOPUBLIC ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4

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JOIN THE DISCORD! ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6

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KyleHeath Socials:

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